Supply Chain Now

Join us for this week's episode of The Buzz, as we dive deep into the recent developments in labor negotiations affecting U.S. ports, specifically the tentative agreement between the ILA and USMX, which has temporarily averted a significant strike.

Hosts Scott Luton and Billy Ray Taylor welcome special guest Jon Gold, VP, Supply Chain and Customs Policy for the National Retail Federation (NRF) to the show, and discuss the implications of this agreement, including a 62% wage increase over six years and the critical topic of automation that could become a sticking point in future negotiations.

Listen in as the conversation continues and covers:

• The need for continuous learning to retain talent and adapt to changes in the manufacturing workforce
• Cybersecurity Awareness Month, highlighting the critical importance of protecting supply chains from increasing cyber threats
• The upcoming NRF 2025 conference and key themes like AI's role in supply chain management and strategies for diversifying operations outside of China that will be focused on
• The significance of engaging younger generations in manufacturing through educational tours and programs to foster interest in the industry

Join us for this episode, and gain insights into current market dynamics and the strategies that can help navigate the complexities of supply chain management in today's rapidly changing environment.

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Security in manufacturing has become a critical concern as production systems become more digitized and interconnected. As this digitization advances, improving cybersecurity preparedness is vital to safeguarding operations and staying ahead of emerging threats.

In this episode of Supply Chain Now, sponsored by Microsoft, hosts Scott W. Luton and Kevin L. Jackson are joined by Thomas Marr, Senior Cybersecurity Engineer at Lockheed Martin. They discuss the critical intersection of cybersecurity, manufacturing, and the aviation industry.

Thomas shares his expertise on how the rapid pace of digital transformation—fueled by innovations such as AI, machine learning, and cloud computing—has reshaped the cybersecurity landscape. The conversation covers the unique challenges of protecting operational technology (OT) and information technology (IT) systems in manufacturing, while providing valuable insights into the growing importance of supply chain security across the aviation sector.

Tune in to learn how cybersecurity professionals like Thomas are navigating the ever-evolving threat landscape in manufacturing, applying continuous learning to stay ahead of bad actors, and ensuring the safety of both military and civilian aerospace operations.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(05:09) Developing a learning mindset in the cybersecurity industry

(09:45) How military experience shaped Thomas’ cybersecurity career

(10:49) IT vs. OT cybersecurity differences

(12:30) Ensuring cybersecurity in manufacturing and aviation industries

(14:35) Importance of visibility and monitoring in OT systems

(16:04) Impact of rapid digital transformation on cybersecurity

(17:40) AI and machine learning in aviation cybersecurity

(19:01) Lockheed Martin’s approach to supply chain security

(21:20) Managing cloud computing security in aerospace and defense

(23:45) Securing operational technology (OT) in defense sectors

(27:02) The evolving cybersecurity threat landscape

(30:15) Lockheed Martin’s supply chain security measures

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As we know, supply chain leaders face challenges on a daily basis. So, what can we learn about keeping our teams learning and fine-tuning their skills for future success?

In this episode, Scott W. Luton is joined by Sam Pemberton, CEO of Skill Dynamics, and Kevin Takier, Manager of Portfolio Strategy and Analytics at Delta Airlines, to discuss the critical issue of the supply chain skills gap. With a rising need for targeted upskilling and leadership development, the conversation explores how organizations like Delta Airlines are investing in their workforce to meet future demands.

The discussion also delves into Skill Dynamics' data-driven approach to training, including insights from their latest skills report and the specific competencies needed for supply chain success in 2024. Both Kevin and Sam share real-world examples of how personalized learning plans, AI adoption, and continuous development are reshaping teams across industries.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(05:07) Kevin Takier’s role at Delta Airlines and supply chain transformation

(08:07) Challenges in supply chain post-COVID and workforce skills gaps

(10:55) Data-driven training and the importance of facts over gut feelings

(13:16) Insights from the 2024 Skills Report on top competencies in demand

(16:00) Professional development and training programs at Delta Airlines

(19:18) How AI and emerging technologies are shaping supply chain roles

(22:33) Personalized training programs and addressing individual skill gaps

(25:17) Balancing traditional skills with new technological advancements

(29:00) Importance of continuous learning and leadership development

(33:25) Key strategies for closing the supply chain skills gap

(37:53) Investing in workforce development

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Join us for this week's episode of The Buzz, packed with actionable insights and expert perspectives!

Dive into the latest developments shaking up the global supply chain landscape, including the imminent ILA/USMX stalemate that could lead to the first strike since 1977, potentially costing the U.S. economy billions. Hosts Scott Luton and Kim Reuter are joined by special guest Sofia Rivas, the newly appointed host and CEO of Supply Chain Now en Espanol, who brings fresh insights into the evolving narrative in logistics.

Listen in as the trio explores:

• The implications of weaponized supply chains and new tariffs affecting e-commerce
• The critical need for transparency and security in supply chain operations
• The impact of automation on labor
• The role of small and medium businesses in leveraging innovative solutions, this episode is packed with actionable insights and expert perspectives.

Join us for this episode, as we unpack these pressing issues and celebrate the relaunch of Supply Chain Now en Espanol, highlighting untold stories from the Spanish-speaking supply chain community.

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How are procurement and IT leaders addressing the growing challenges of cybersecurity in 2024?

In this episode, Scott W. Luton is joined by Richard McVay, Senior Director and IT Telecom Subject Matter Expert at OMNIA Partners, to dive into the increasingly complex world of procurement technology and cybersecurity. With cyber threats like ransomware and third-party breaches on the rise, Richard shares how businesses can protect their operations while optimizing procurement strategies.

The discussion covers real-world examples of how companies are leveraging advanced procurement tools to streamline processes, safeguard sensitive data, and improve decision-making. Richard also emphasizes the importance of bridging the gap between IT and procurement, the cost of running RFPs, and why aligning these functions is essential to staying competitive.

Jump into the conversation:

(00:00) Intro

(04:26) What the OMNIA partners team does

(16:57) The high costs of poor or unsuccessful solutions

(22:45) Newer technologies permeating the procurement space

(31:18) Cybersecurity threats that supply chain leaders need to be aware of

(34:52) The range of cybersecurity solutions

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